Abstract: A book handling and reading assistive device comprising a cabinet 101 adapted to house a physical book, a dedicated cabinet 101 frame 102 with adjustable side clamps 103, a tilt arrangement to securely hold and angle books, a mechanical attachment 104 mounted atop cabinet 101 with a first arm 104a to hold book open and a second arm 104b ending in a fingertip featuring a micro-structured dry adhesive pad 105 for turning pages, servo motors controlling movements of second arm 104b based on a predefined motion path via sensor feedback, a sensor suite including infrared, optical, tactile pressure, and thickness sensors for detecting book presence, page alignment, and single-page turning accuracy, a transparent flattening plate 106 to keep pages flat during scanning, an imaging unit 107 synced with an integrated OCR module for scanning, and a multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module for audio output.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a book handling and reading assistive device that is capable of providing assistance in an automated manner to people for handling and reading physical books in a comfortable manner, especially for those who may have limited physical mobility.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Reading physical books continues to be an essential part of daily life for education, professional work, and personal enjoyment. However, many individuals face challenges when interacting with books due to age, disability, or other physical limitations. Tasks such as holding a book open, turning pages accurately, or reading printed text often becomes difficult without assistance. There is also a growing need in public libraries, schools, and archival centers for devices that automate the process of handling and reading books efficiently. As the demand for accessibility and inclusive technology grows, there is a clear need for devices that help users read books independently, accurately, and comfortably.
[0003] Page-turning and reading assistance devices rely on simple mechanical linkages such as rotating arms or suction mechanisms to lift and turn pages. Some devices use air blowers or rubber rollers to separate and turn pages. These devices often lack precision and cause damage to delicate books, especially those with rigid spines or thin pages. They typically cannot detect or correct the issue of multiple pages being turned at once, which leads to scanning errors and reading discontinuity. Moreover, existing book scanners require manual alignment of pages and constant user intervention, limiting convenience and usability for people with physical limitations.
[0004] US7557965B2 discloses a method and apparatus for the viewing and acquisition of images of a document such as a book. The apparatus allows for the automated and reliable turning of pages of the document, while supporting it in a manner to facilitate imaging of the facing pages. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a base for supporting the operative assemblies and components of the apparatus, a cradle assembly for holding a book, and a page turning assembly for presenting the pages to be imaged in seriatim. The method employed by the present invention involves the steps of turning pages, clamping pages and imaging, wherein the various components of the apparatus are operated to carry out the page turning and imaging functions in sequence.
[0005] US7541533B2 discloses an apparatus having page turning capability for reading assistance enables to easily turn over pages of a book by a simple operation and provides a more comfortable environment for the person who spends time on reading. To properly use an apparatus, set an open book on a supporting means, press the midsection over the right and left pages by a page-pressing means, and then press the edges of the right and left pages by page-turning-up means. To turn over the page, activate an interlocking means by using a remote handling means, move either one of the right and left page-turning-up means, and press the page surface to create a shearing force between the first and second pages so that the page is turned up. After that, a page-turning-over means starts moving and slips into the back of the page. The page-turning-over means presses the page from behind and turns over the page to the other side. At the same time, the page-pressing means run off the first page already turned up.
[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed in order to assist users with page turning and reading physical books, however, the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to lack of precise page handling, inability to adjust for different book sizes and spine rigidity, and insufficient mechanisms to prevent multiple pages from turning simultaneously.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of securely holding and flexing books with varying spine rigidity, accurately turning single pages without causing damage and incorporates enhanced audio features to support independent reading for a wide range of users.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an automated means for turning of pages in physical books, ensuring that pages are separated correctly without causing any damage to the book or its pages.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of maintaining a stable and secure hold on book pages of different sizes and spine conditions for gentle handling to prevent harm to the pages during reading.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that enhance the accuracy and clarity of text captured from physical books by means of scanning to convert text into clear and understandable audio output for helping physically-challenged users.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of supporting independent reading by evaluating user needs and controlling page-turning actions to avoid turning multiple pages at once and provide a comfortable reading experience.
[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The present invention relates to a book handling and reading assistive device that is developed to assist users in reading books by turning a page automatically one at a time, and converting text to audio output to improve convenience and accessibility in accessing printed content without manual effort.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a book handling and reading assistive device is disclosed comprising of a cabinet with a top surface, a dedicated frame provided within the cabinet to support physical books, equipped with a two-armed mechanical attachment mounted on the top surface, where the arms are connected by a dual-direction servo motor enabling synchronized movement and precise motion control, an infrared (IR) sensor positioned at the central spine holder detects book presence, an optical sensor that monitors spine rigidity, second arm ends in a flat, rotatable fingertip mount covered with a dry adhesive pad made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or gecko-inspired synthetic tape with microscopic hair-like structures arranged hexagonally for gripping and releasing pages.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention further comprising of a dual servo motor assembly controls pivoting and curling motions for precise page manipulation following a defined motion path, a sensor suite including optical and tactile pressure sensors verifies page alignment and prevents multiple pages from turning simultaneously using thickness sensors and vibration pulses, an imaging unit synchronized with an OCR module scans and recognizes text in multiple languages aided by adjustable polarizing filters and LED lighting to reduce glare, an embedded multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module with an integrated microphone and ultrasonic directional speaker provides clear audio output, further enhanced by vertical book racks with barcode scanners, a transparent flattening plate, an intuitive user-interface for probiding user-control, alerts, mood-based personalized book recommendations using biometric analysis, a digital book-to-page mapping module for accurate navigation, and customizable reading session management.
[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a book handling and reading assistive device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0022] The present invention relates to a book handling and reading assistive device that is capable of helping users to handle and read physical books by automatically turning pages, keeping them flat for easy reading, and converting text into audio for enhancing accessibility, ease of use, and comfort for readers with various needs.
[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a book handling and reading assistive device is illustrated, comprises of a cabinet 101 with top surface and dedicated frame 102 provided within the cabinet 101, adjustable side clamps 103 with tilt arrangements integrated on the cabinet 101, a two-armed mechanical attachment 104 mounted on the top surface of the cabinet 101, a first arm 104a positioned to hold the book cover, a second arm 104b terminating in a flat, rotatable fingertip mount covered with micro-structured dry adhesive pad 105, a transparent flattening plate 106 mounted on the cabinet 101, an imaging unit 107 installed on the cabinet 101 top surface, an embedded microphone 108 integrated into the cabinet 101, plurality of vertical book racks 109 are positioned on either side of the cabinet 101 including an L-shaped sliding structure 110 housing an optical barcode scanner 111, a padded conveyor belt 112 via horizontal motorized tracks 113 and vertical motorized tracks 114 mechanical clamps 115 attached to the book rack 109, and a central spine holder 116 provided at the base of the cabinet 101.
[0024] The present invention includes a cabinet 101 having a top surface to serve as the primary workspace for holding and operating the device. The cabinet 101 includes a dedicated frame 102 specifically adapted to support a physical book in an optimal position for handling and reading. A central spine holder 116 is positioned at the base of the cabinet 101 to hold the book for reading.
[0025] A user is required to access and presses a push button arranged on the cabinet 101 to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The push button when pressed by the user, closes an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation. The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the linked components.
[0026] A computing unit is mounted over the cabinet via one or more fasteners, the computing unit is installed with a user interface that is activated on pressing the push button. The computing unit is linked with the microcontroller wirelessly by means of a communication module. The user interface provides a list of options to the user regarding providing assistance to read a book. For example, the options may include selecting the type of book to read (such as fiction, non-fiction, or educational), choosing reading modes like audio narration or page-by-page display, and adjusting text size or reading speed. The user interface also provides option to set preferred reading times and notification methods, generating personalized reading reminders and managing session continuity.
[0027] The communication module includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances for communication of wireless commands to facilitate operations of the device.
[0028] A plurality of vertical book racks 109 are positioned on either side of the cabinet 101, each containing multiple slots. Each slot isequipped with an L-shaped sliding structure 110 in which the books are to be stored. Each slot is integrated with an optical barcode scanner 111. The optical barcode scanner 111 works by reading the unique barcode labels attached to each book stored in the vertical racks 109, enabling quick and accurate position identification. Using a light source, the scanner 111 illuminates the barcode and captures the reflected light with a sensor, converting the pattern into digital data. This data is then processed by the microcontroller to identify the book and retrieve its information from the database.
[0029] The L-shaped sliding structure 110 works through one or more sliders that move along the guide rails via small motors, either of the AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) motors. The microcontroller sends a signal to the motors, either directly or via motor drivers to activate them to move the structure 110. The horizontal movement enables the scanner 111 to reach different columns of book slots, while the vertical movement allows it to adjust to the height of each slot. This dual-axis sliding action ensures that the scanner 111 accurately position itself in front of any book’s barcode regardless of where it is stored in the rack 109 allow selection of book without needing to remove books manually.
[0030] Selected book is picked up by a pair of mechanical clamps 115 holder 116 that move to retract the book from the shelf. The clamps 115 move through a set of horizontal and vertical motorized tracks 113, 114. Once the book is identified, the microcontroller operates one or more actuators connected to the mechanical clamps 115 and the horizontal and vertical motorized tracks 113, 114 to guide the clamps 115 to the exact position of the book in the vertical racks 109. The mechanical clamps 115 open to gently grasp the book’s edges using controlled pressure regulated by the microcontroller to avoid damage while holding it firmly. After securing the book, the motorized tracks 113, 114, under the microcontroller’s control, move the mechanical clamps 115 smoothly to transfer the book from the rack 109 onto a padded conveyor belt 112 within the cabinet 101.
[0031] The book is transferred onto the conveyor belt 112 that allows for precise placement of books into the central spine holder 116, enabling automated book selection and handling. The conveyor works by using a motor-driven belt 112 that moves continuously or in controlled steps to transport the book from the mechanical clamps 115 to the central spine holder 116. The microcontroller controls the motor, starting and stopping the belt 112 based on feedback from position sensors that detect the book’s location on the conveyor. As the book is placed on the padded surface of the belt 112, the motor drives the belt 112 forward, carrying the book smoothly along the designated path. The conveyor slows down and stops precisely when the book reaches the central spine holder 116 to ensure accurate placement. The padding on the belt 112 cushions the book, preventing any damage during movement.
[0032] The holder 116 is integrated with an infrared (IR) sensor that detects the presence of a physical book. The infrared (IR) sensor integrated with the holder 116 works by emitting infrared light toward the central spine holder 116 area and detecting the reflected light to sense the presence of a physical book. When a book is placed in the holder 116, the IR light reflects off the book’s surface back to the sensor, signaling its presence.
[0033] A mechanical attachment 104 is mounted on the top surface of the cabinet 101. The mechanical attachment include a first and second arm 104a, 104b. where the arms are interconnected via a dual-direction servo motor assembly. This servo motor is configured to provide synchronized movement and precise motion control of the arms, enabling coordinated operation during page-turning. A dual-direction servo motor assembly works by enabling controlled rotation of the motor shaft in both clockwise and counter clockwise directions, allowing precise and reversible movement.
[0034] The servo motor assembly consists of a motor, a feedback sensor, and a control circuit. When the microcontroller sends a command signal, the control circuit adjusts the motor’s power to rotate the shaft to a specific angle or position in either direction. The feedback sensor continuously monitors the shaft’s position and sends this information back to the control circuit, creating a closed-loop that ensures accurate positioning. This bidirectional control allows the servo motor assembly to synchronize movements of connected mechanical parts, such as the two arms in the device, enabling coordinated, smooth, and precise actions. These clamps securely hold and angle the book within the central spine holder 116, facilitating effective page separation and preventing damage to the book during operation.
[0035] The clamp works by mechanical actuation upon receiving a signal from the microcontroller to move its gripping arms inward or outward, securely holding the book in place within the central spine holder 116. The movement of the clamp arms is controlled by the microcontroller, which adjusts the pressure applied based on the book’s size and spine condition. The clamp is equipped with soft surfaces to prevent damage to the book’s covers while maintaining a firm grip.
[0036] The tilt arrangement in the side clamps 103 allows the clamps to adjust the angle at which they hold the book within the central spine holder 116. The tilt arrangement involves micro-rotational joints, controlled by the microcontroller, enabling precise adjustment based on the book’s thickness and rigidity. Instead of gripping the book straight on, the clamps tilt slightly inward or outward, changing the book’s orientation to facilitate easier page separation.
[0037] The first arm 104a of the mechanical attachment 104 is engineered to hold the book cover securely in place, keeping the book open and stable throughout the page-turning process. An optical sensor continuously monitors the rigidity of the book’s spine.
[0038] The optical sensor works by emitting infrared light and detecting the amount of light reflected or transmitted through the book’s spine area. When the spine is rigid, the way light interacts with the surface changes compared to when the spine is flexible. The sensor measures these changes in light intensity or pattern to determine the spine’s rigidity. This data is sent to the microcontroller, which interprets the readings and decides if the spine requires gentle flexing or adjustment. Based on the detected spine stiffness, the microcontroller dynamically adjusts the pressure applied by the side clamps 103. Additionally, micro-rotational joints are adjusted by the microcontroller in the first arm 104a to flex the spine gently to prevent damage to the book.
[0039] The second arm 104b of the mechanical attachment 104 terminates in a flat, rotatable fingertip mount, which is covered by a dry adhesive pad 105 composed of micro-structured elastomeric material. The fingertip of the second arm 104b comprises a dry adhesive pad 105 made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or gecko-inspired synthetic tape. This pad 105 features microscopic hair-like structures arranged in a hexagonal pattern, which enhances gripping and releasing capabilities, enabling precise handling of individual pages during turning.
[0040] The second arm 104b is controlled by the dual servo motor assembly, where one motor controls the pivoting at the arm base while the second motor actuates a curling motion. This arrangement follows a predefined motion path consisting of downward contact, forward curling, and lift-and-release steps for accurate page manipulation.
[0041] The device includes a sensor suite integrated with the mechanical arms, comprising an optical sensor for page alignment and completion detection, and a tactile pressure sensor on the adhesive pad 105 to confirm contact with the page. The optical sensor uses an infrared light source and a photodetector to observe the position and angle of a page. It captures visual data of the page before, during, and after turning. By comparing the real-time image or reflection pattern to a reference alignment, the sensor detects whether the page is properly positioned and whether it has been turned fully.
[0042] Tactile Pressure sensor measures the physical pressure between the fingertip pad 105 and the surface of the page. The sensor uses piezo-resistive sensing elements to detect force upon contact. When the fingertip touches the page, the sensor registers the pressure level and sends that data to the microcontroller to confirm proper contact before gripping. Feedback from these sensors is processed by the microcontroller, which regulates the rotational parameters of the motors including include torque, angular displacement, speed and acceleration to ensure only a single page is turned at a time.
[0043] In cases where multiple pages are detected, a thickness sensor and vibration pulses are used to separate the pages, preventing errors in page turning. The thickness sensor works by measuring the gap between two reference points when the page is gripped, using capacitive or optical distance measurement techniques. It estimates the number of pages picked up based on this thickness. If it detects more than one page (thickness above threshold), it alerts the microcontroller to initiate corrective action.
[0044] Vibration Pulse are used as small, controlled vibrations from a miniature actuator or motor to generate brief pulses that help separate multiple pages that may be slightly stuck together. It is activated when the thickness sensor indicates multiple pages have been picked up, improving the chance of isolating a single page without manual intervention.
[0045] An imaging unit 107 is installed on the cabinet 101 to scan the written contents of the book. This imaging unit 107 is synchronized with an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) module that supports multi-lingual and multi-modal text recognition. The imaging unit 107 consists of a camera combined with adjustable LED (light emitting diode) lighting and a polarizing filter to reduce glare and improve image clarity.
[0046] Once the images are captured, they are sent to the Optical Character Recognition (OCR) module, which processes the images to convert the printed text into machine-readable digital text. The OCR module is designed to handle multiple languages and various text formats (multi-modal), allowing it to recognize characters, fonts, and handwriting accurately across different scripts. The synchronization between the imaging unit 107 and OCR module ensures that each scanned page is quickly and correctly processed, enabling efficient digital conversion of the book content for further applications such as text-to-speech or digital storage.
[0047] The device further comprises an embedded multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module that converts the recognized text into audio output, providing an accessible reading experience for users with visual impairments or reading difficulties. The multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module works by first receiving digital text input, which has been converted from the scanned book pages using OCR. The module processes this text through language-specific speech synthesis algorithms that generate natural-sounding speech in the selected language. The module breaks down the text into phonemes and applies prosody, including tone, rhythm, and intonation, to produce fluid and understandable audio output.
[0048] An integrated microphone 108 continuously monitors ambient noise levels, enabling dynamic adjustment of audio output to maintain clear and comfortable listening. The audio is delivered through an ultrasonic directional speaker, which focuses the sound toward the user, minimizing disturbance to others nearby. This targeted sound delivery enhances privacy and improves audio clarity even in noisy environments.
[0049] The integrated microphone 108 works by capturing sound waves from the surrounding environment and converting them into electrical signals. It continuously listens for ambient noise levels, allowing the device to assess how loud or quiet the environment is. This information is then sent to the microcontroller or audio processing module, which uses it to adjust the volume and clarity of the audio output in real time, ensuring the speech remains clear and comfortable for the user.
[0050] The ultrasonic directional speaker works by emitting high-frequency sound waves that are focused into a narrow beam directed specifically at the user. Unlike traditional speakers that spread sound widely, this speaker uses ultrasonic waves to create an audible sound only within a targeted area. This focused delivery reduces sound leakage to the surrounding environment, minimizing disturbance to others nearby and enhancing the privacy and clarity of the audio output for the listener.
[0051] A transparent flattening plate 106 is mounted on the cabinet 101, which is deployed onto a turned page to maintain flatness during scanning. This feature ensures consistent image quality and accuracy in text recognition by preventing page curling or movement during capture. The transparent flattening plate 106 is mounted on the cabinet 101, typically connected to an actuator that is controlled by the microcontroller. After a page is successfully turned and aligned, the microcontroller signals the actuator to lower the flattening plate 106 gently onto the page. The transparency of the plate 106 allows the imaging unit 107 to scan the content without obstruction, while the flat surface prevents page curvature or lifting that cause blurred or distorted scans.
[0052] A book-to-page mapping module is incorporated within the microcontroller for calculating flipping sequences based on page thickness and verifying page correctness via optical character recognition to ensure accurate page navigation The book-to-page mapping module works by storing a digital table of contents for each book within the microcontroller, which acts as a reference guide for page navigation. When a book is placed in the device, the module uses information about the physical characteristics of the book, such as page thickness, to calculate how many pages need to be flipped to reach a specific section or page. During the page-turning process, the module continuously verifies the accuracy of the pages turned by using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to read and confirm the text on each page. This verification helps ensure that the correct pages are being navigated without skipping or repeating any content, enabling smooth, precise, and reliable reading sessions.
[0053] The microcontroller is further programmed to analyze user inputs such as voice tone, facial emotion, and biometric data to classify user mood states. Based on this analysis, the device offers tailored book recommendations and automate retrieval, opening, flattening, and reading of selected books to enhance the user’s mood and reading experience. For example, when a user wears the device and interacts with it, the microcontroller continuously monitors various inputs such as the tone of the user’s voice during commands, their facial expressions captured by the imaging unit 107, and biometric signals like heart rate or skin temperature.
[0054] If the any signs of stress or sadness (such as a low or trembling voice, a frowning expression, or elevated heart rate) are detected, the microcontroller classifies the user’s mood as anxious or down. In response, the microcontroller automatically recommends uplifting or calming books tailored to improve the user’s mood. Upon the user’s selection, the microcontroller commands mechanical clamps 115 to retrieve the chosen book, open it to the first page, flatten it for easy reading, and even begin reading aloud if desired. This personalized process helps create a supportive and engaging reading experience aimed at enhancing emotional well-being, making the rehabilitation session more enjoyable and effective.
[0055] The user also accesses the computing unit for adjustment of audio settings, page navigation, menu access, scanning control, language selection, and providing alert notifications and instructional wizards for book placement and error handling.
[0056] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.
[0057] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the present invention includes a cabinet 101 having a top surface and a dedicated frame 102 provided within the cabinet 101 for supporting a physical book, detected by the infrared (IR) sensor, which activates the mechanical attachment 104. The adjustable side clamps 103 with tilt arrangements accommodate and angle the book based on its size. The microcontroller dynamically adjusts side clamp 103 pressure and controls micro-rotational joints to gently flex the spine without causing damage. The first arm 104a of the mechanical attachment 104 holds the book cover open and stable during page-turning operations, and the second arm 104b, terminating in a flat, rotatable fingertip mount covered with a dry adhesive pad 105 made of micro-structured elastomeric material, executes page turning. The dual servo motor assembly controls the rotation and curling of the second arm 104b, following a predefined motion path for precise page manipulation. The sensor suite, including optical, tactile pressure, and thickness sensors, monitors page alignment and ensures only a single page is turned at a time. The transparent flattening plate 106 deploys onto the turned page to maintain flatness during scanning, while the imaging unit 107 synced with the OCR module scans the written contents. The embedded multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module converts recognized text into audio output, which is delivered through an ultrasonic directional speaker, supported by an integrated microphone 108 for ambient noise detection. The user-interface allows adjustment of settings, page navigation, and provides alert notifications and instructional guidance, ensuring smooth operation for users.
[0058] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A book handling and reading assistive device, comprising:
i) a cabinet 101 adapted to house a physical book;
ii) a dedicated cabinet frame 102 provided within the cabinet 101 integrated with adjustable side clamps 103 with a tilt arrangement to hold and angle books of various sizes securely in a central spine holder 116 provided at the base of the cabinet 101;
iii) a mechanical attachment 104 mounted atop the cabinet 101, the attachment including a first arm 104a configured to hold the book open, and a second arm 104b ending in a fingertip comprising a micro-structured dry adhesive pad 105 for turning pages;
iv) a set of servo motors controlling rotational and curling movements of the second arm 104b based on a predefined motion path for sequential page-turning;
v) a sensor suite configured to detect book presence, page alignment, in response to which the rotational parameters of the motors are controlled;
vi) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on the cabinet 101 and synced with an integrated OCR (Optical Character Recognition) module to scan written contents of the book;
vii) a transparent flattening plate 106 actuable to hold a page of the book to keep the page flat during scanning; and
viii) an embedded multilingual text-to-speech (TTS) module converting recognized text into audio output, supported by an integrated microphone 108 for ambient noise detection, and an ultrasonic directional speaker for focused sound delivery.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of vertical book racks 109 are positioned on either side of the cabinet 101, each comprising multiple slots with an L-shaped sliding structure 110 housing an optical barcode scanner 111, and selected books are transferred onto a padded conveyor belt 112 via a set of horizontal and vertical motorized tracks 113, 114 and mechanical clamps 115 provided with the cabinet for precise placement over the central spine holder 116.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user-interface is inbuilt in a computing unit accessed by the user allowing adjustment of audio settings, page navigation, menu access, scanning control, language selection, and providing alert notifications and instructional wizards for book placement and error handling.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an infrared sensor is configured with the cabinet 101 to detect placement of a physical book in the central spine holder 116 and accordingly the microcontroller actuates the first and second arms.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fingertip of the second arm 104b comprises a dry adhesive pad 105 preferably made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or gecko-inspired synthetic tape, the pad 105 featuring microscopic hair-like structures arranged in a hexagonal pattern for enhanced page adhesion and release.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor suite includes but not limited to optical and tactile pressure sensors the rotational parameters include torque, angular displacement, speed and acceleration.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the OCR module includes a glare detection unit and a dynamically adjustable polarizing filter mounted on the cabinet 101, reducing glare caused by glossy pages or illustrations.
8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller analyzes voice tone, facial emotion, and biometric data inputs to classify user mood states and provide tailored book recommendations and automated retrieval, opening, flattening, and reading of selected books to enhance mood of the user.
9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a book-to-page mapping module is integrated with the microcontroller, maintaining a digital table of contents database for each book, calculating flipping sequences based on page thickness and verifying page correctness via optical character recognition to ensure accurate page navigation.
10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user-interface permits users to set preferred reading times and notification methods, generating personalized reading reminders and managing session continuity.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521059419-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 2 | 202521059419-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 3 | 202521059419-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 4 | 202521059419-PROOF OF RIGHT [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 5 | 202521059419-POWER OF AUTHORITY [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 6 | 202521059419-FORM-9 [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 7 | 202521059419-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 8 | 202521059419-FORM 18 [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 9 | 202521059419-FORM 1 [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 10 | 202521059419-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 11 | 202521059419-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 12 | 202521059419-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 13 | 202521059419-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 14 | 202521059419-DRAWINGS [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 15 | 202521059419-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 16 | 202521059419-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [20-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-20 |
| 17 | 202521059419-FORM-26 [25-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-25 |
| 18 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-07-04 |